Communications Division

Andre Holman, one of STL TV's very own, has just completed his 19^th and final year as Head Football Coach for Herbert Hoover Boys' and Girls' Club.

Holman, who also recently celebrated his 20^th year anniversary as a City of St. Louis employee, says there were several things that attracted him to coaching. "I thought it would be a good opportunity to give back," says Holman. "Coaching enabled me to play an active role in the community and be part of something positive for kids who wouldn't necessarily have these kinds of opportunities at home."

Holman's dedication to the community's youth, as well as to the Herbert Hoover Club, is evidenced by his 19-year tenure. Holman says he was also motivated to coach football because of the life lessons he was able to teach his players through the game. "Learning to be part of a team is a life skill," states Holman. "It teaches discipline and it's a way for kids to have a good time. It was a win-win situation for me."

While reflecting over his many years of coaching, Holman says his last season was the toughest. "This year has been the most challenging of them all," Holman said. "Our team got moved up to 13 Unlimited, and we had to play Mathews-Dickey in our first game. We lost 13 to 12."  But that's when the coach in Holman emerged and he encouraged his team with a pep talk. "I told them, I know you guys are hurting, but today, we got to see what you're really made of."

Nevertheless, the Mathews-Dickey rivalry was far from over. Inspired by Holman's words and the will to win—the Herbert Hoover Eagles wanted another chance to play Mathews-Dickey. The Eagles finally got their wish at the end of the season. "We played Mathews-Dickey as part of the Super Bowl weekend, and we beat them 18 to 14," Holman says proudly. "I couldn't ask for a better way to go out. They earned it and went out as champs."

When asked if he'll ever coach again, Holman responded, "You're never out of the game. Even if it's just one kid you're helping out. I don't think I will ever come back as a head coach, but I think I will always try to help out in any way I can." Holman has seen many of his players go on to play football for their high schools' programs and even go on to college.

Holman says that as he leaves his coaching post, he'll leave with many fond memories.

"Helping the community and helping the kids was the main draw for me," says Holman. "Having kids involved in an extracurricular activity and having the opportunity to teach kids were the two main things for me."

Holman also adds that as a volunteer coach for 19 years, he's thankful to his family for allowing him to dedicate so much of his time to the club. "I have to thank my wife, two daughters and my sons for allowing me to do it," Holman stated. "I have always had my family's support."

In addition, Holman acknowledges that there were several other people who contributed to his success through the years. "I would also like to thank Kevin Smith, Kevin Holman, Rob Dorsey, Brandon Allen, Antoine Wiley Sr. and Juan Martin," Holman adds.

"I'm pleased with the kids, and I am excited to see where they are going. Keeping kids off the streets and helping them have fun and learn life skills was a great opportunity for me," states Holman. "Now, I think it's just time for me to see what's next in my life."